Governor Uba Sani has paid compensation to three different communities in Kaduna State that have been affected by the implementation of projects, within two weeks.
The governor who flagged off the distribution of cheques at Basawa in Sabon Gari local government on Friday, pointed out that his administration has consistently placed the welfare and dignity of people at the centre of every project.
Represented by the Secretary to Kaduna State Government, Dr AbdulKadir Muázu Meyere, he said that the cheques is to compensate residents that will be affected by construction along the Hunkuyi-Unguwan Rimi-Basawa road corridor, linking Kudan and Sabon Gari local governments.
It will be recalled that Governor Uba Sani handed out cheques worth over N2 billion that were distributed to 1,000 individuals whose homes will be affected by a comprehensive flood and gully erosion control project from Rigasa to Tudun Wada on July 2.
Similarly, the governor distributed cheques to households that will be affected by the construction of the 15km Ring Road from Danbushiya Junction to Danhonou 2 in Millennium City on the same day.
Speaking through the Secretary to the State Government at Basawa in Sabon Gari local government on Friday, Governor Uba Sani noted that he has been committed to infrastructural development since he assumed office.
According to the governor, his administration’s philosophy is that ‘’development must be people-centred, inclusive, and guided by justice, compassion and fairness.’’
‘’The Hunkuyi–Unguwan Rimi–Basawa Road is a strategic project that will strengthen connectivity between Kudan and Sabon Gari Local Government Areas, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, boost commerce, improve access to social services, and stimulate economic activities across this important corridor. It is another demonstration of our resolve to ensure that every part of Kaduna State benefits from quality infrastructure,’’ he noted.
The governor argued that ‘’while the project is designed for the greater public good, we also recognise that some homes, businesses and other properties fall within the approved right-of-way. For this administration, development should never come at the expense of justice. We firmly believe that no citizen should bear an unfair burden in the pursuit of public infrastructure,’’ he said.
The governor disclosed that ‘’Government undertook a transparent and comprehensive assessment of all affected properties to ensure that every eligible person receives fair and adequate compensation.’’
He commended all the stakeholders involved, members of the community and officials of the Kaduna State Roads Agency, KADRA, for carrying out this responsibility with professionalism, diligence and integrity.
‘’Today’s exercise is therefore a demonstration of our commitment to responsible governance. The compensation being distributed is not an act of charity; it is the fulfilment of Government’s legal and moral obligation to citizens whose properties are affected by this important project. “We sincerely appreciate all affected residents for their cooperation and understanding throughout this process,’’ he added.
The governor pointed out that the compensation is consistent with his policy, ‘’which ensures that affected persons are compensated promptly and fairly before major infrastructure projects proceed. ‘’Across Kaduna State, this administration has paid compensation to thousands of affected residents on several strategic road projects, with billions of naira disbursed in fulfilment of this commitment. “This reflects our determination to balance infrastructural development with the protection of citizens’ rights and livelihoods,’’ he added.
In his welcome address, the Managing Director of KADRA, Dr Abdullahi Baba-Ahmad, noted that the event is yet another demonstration of Governor Uba Sani’s unwavering commitment to delivering transformative infrastructure.
Mr Ahmad pointed out that in the execution of these projects, the Governor always ensures ‘’fairness, transparency, and respect for the rights and welfare of every citizen. ‘’The presentation of these compensation cheques reflects the Kaduna State Government’s resolve to ensure that all Project Affected Persons receive their rightful compensation in accordance with due process and established best practices before the commencement of project activities,’’ he added.